Studies often mention the health benefits of resveratrol supplements. Known as an anti-aging product, resveratrol is found in grape skin extract and many supplements claim that regular intake of resveratrol may help to prolong life.

A new study may add another benefit from the “red wine” supplement. A first-of-a-kind government sponsored study examining whether resveratrol can alter or delay the destruction of the brain in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease is set to take place soon.

In this particular study, participants will be given capsules of pure resveratrol, a substance generally found in the skin of red grapes, tomatoes, dark chocolate and nuts. Animal studies have shown it activates a gene that protects the body and brain from aging. The greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s is aging and, therefore, researchers will do baseline tests to identify biological markers of the disease and then other tests throughout the study to determine whether it is progressing. By the study’s end, participants receiving resveratrol will be given 1,000 mg twice a day, a level of dosing can’t be duplicated by sipping wine or eating bits of chocolate.

About 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer’s, a fatal illness that has no treatment or cure. The government’s National Alzheimer’s Project Act is behind the push to find new treatments and a cure for Alzheimer’s by 2025.

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